A Life Between Cities
Born and raised in San Francisco, Grace (30, Editorial & Communications Manager) has spent more than eight years living abroad and now calls Paris home, where she’s been based for over three years. She works remotely in editorial and communications for an Africa-focused energy investment and media platform—an international role that gives her flexibility, perspective, and freedom.
But remote work and life abroad come with a quieter challenge: building real, grounded connections in a city you didn’t grow up in.
“Because I work remotely, I’m always looking to meet new people and have new experiences in the city I love so much.”
That search for connection is what brought Grace to After5.
Why After5, Why Now
At this stage in her life, Grace wasn’t just looking to socialize—she was looking to belong. After5 offered a way to meet women who were open, curious, and intentional about forming friendships, without the pressure or awkwardness that often comes with meeting people as an adult.
It felt aligned with how she wanted to live in Paris: present, connected, and community-driven.
Friendship, One Glass of Wine at a Time
Some friendships begin with a big moment. Grace’s After5 friendships began more simply—and more authentically.
One recent highlight was meeting an After5 friend for drinks at Le Barav, a lively wine bar in Le Marais known for its excellent selection and slightly rowdy energy.
“Great wine, fun atmosphere, and the kind of place where conversations naturally stretch longer than planned.”
Moments like these—uncomplicated, relaxed, and real—are what Grace values most about the After5 experience.
Her After5 Friendship Story
Grace doesn’t describe her story as dramatic, but that’s exactly what makes it meaningful.
“Every woman I’ve met through After5 has been warm, open, interesting, and dynamic in her own space.”
What stands out to her is the consistency: showing up to events and leaving each one feeling inspired, energized, and genuinely excited to keep building those connections.
“I always leave feeling inspired and excited to do more.”
For Grace, friendship isn’t about instant closeness—it’s about shared openness, repeated moments, and the ease of being yourself.
An Ideal Sunday, Shared
Grace’s ideal Sunday is centered around friends and shared rituals. It often starts late morning with Collision run club—a mix of movement, conversation, and familiar faces. From there, it’s coffee together at favorite spots like The Coffee, Laïzé, or Mardi, lingering over conversations that flow easily.
Afternoons might mean vintage shopping with friends, wandering through neighborhoods without a strict plan, followed by a glass of wine outdoors—even in winter—catching up and people-watching. Sundays usually end the way Grace loves most: gathering friends around the table for a big homemade dinner.
“Good food, easy laughter, and long conversations—there’s no better way to end the week.”
Looking Ahead
In 2026, Grace hopes to return to creative writing, explore interior design or decorating as a side project, and finally commit to restarting her French lessons. Travel also plays a big role in what’s next, with plans that include New England, the Southwest of France, Vietnam, and Mozambique.
Alongside all of that, building and nurturing friendships remains central.
Becoming a Connection Curator
Grace stepped into the role of Connection Curator because she truly believes in what After5 offers—especially for women navigating life in a new city.
“I know firsthand how challenging it can be to move to a foreign city.”
As a Connection Curator, her goal is to help women feel comfortable joining, meeting new people, expanding their networks, and enjoying the process.
“I want the experience to feel fun and genuinely fulfilling.”
For Grace, After5 isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about showing up, sharing a moment, and slowly building friendships that make a city feel like home.
